Rajasthan, the land of deserts and forts,
of history and traditions, of romance and valour, has
much to offer in the field of adventure activities.
Apart from some great trekking possibilities in varied
terrain, Rajasthan has perfect paragliding destinations
in the Arravali hills and there are a number of unusual
safaris that can only be experienced in Rajasthan. Imagine
yourself riding through history on a horse safari in
enchanted Rajasthan, or experiencing the sand dunes
of Rajasthan on the ship of the desert.
Horse Safari
In the days of yore, when horses were as much a part
of battlefields as were valiant warriors, much energy
was spent in the breeding of horses. These horses were
noted for their stamina and fierce loyalty to their
masters. Riding still evokes images of a gallant past,
and for the equestrian, the attraction of a horse safari
through Rajasthan has an undeniable appeal. Trails through
villages pass ancient forts and old temples.
Nights can be spent in the palaces of the erstwhile
rulers of Rajputana that have been reconverted to hotels
as well as in garhs or small forts owned by the descendants
of the glorious Rajput rulers of yesteryears. Spend
enchanted evenings experiencing the rich variety of
Rajasthani cuisine, culture and entertainment on a dream
holiday.
Camel Safaris
Camel safaris are also immensely popular for experiencing
the ambience of Rajasthan. On the caravan trails of
the past, ride and walk through the sand dunes of the
vast Thar Desert, the rolling landscapes and the varied
flora and fauna. The stars and the moon will add to
the romance of nights in the desert by a camp fire,
with the strains of Rajasthani folk music to transport
you to another time. The camel breeders of Raika make
great guides with their intimate knowledge of the villages
and waterholes on the way.
Other Safaris
For those who prefer the modern steed, a Jeep Safari
is an option to explore. It takes you through any part
of Rajasthan you choose. Safaris organised to the Bishnoi
village near Jodhpur have gained popularity. Bicycle
and motorbike safaris are an alternative way of discovering
the history and culture of Rajasthan as you enjoy its
natural splendour. Cycle polo is a keenly contested
annual feature in the state. Elephant safaris are an
option that is available between Jaipur and Pushkar.
The Jaipur Vintage Car Rally held annually in the month
of January attracts car and rally enthusiasts as well
as those who enjoy the value of beautiful antiques.
Some of these prized vehicles are available on hire
for pleasure rides.
The topography of Rajasthan varies from the sand dunes
of the desert to the picturesque hill ranges of the
Aravallis, the oldest mountain ranges in the world,
making Rajasthan a trekker's paradise. There are many
undulating meadows; dense forests; still, clear lakes
and enchanting waterfalls and rivulets that make trekking
a pleasure.
Mount Abu, 1300 m above sea level is an ideal trekking
destination. Kumbhalgarh, 90 kms from Udaipur is another
area in the Aravallis which is good for trekking. The
exciting trails that lead to the historic Kumbhalgarh
fort, the nearby wildlife sanctuary and the famous Jain
temples of Ranakpur make for ideal treks. One can trek
from Abu Road to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of Aravalli;
Thandi Beri to Kumbhalgarh Fort or Ranakpur to Rawali
Tatgarh. Evenings are spent camping under starlit skies
or chilling in a Dak Bungalow or Forest Rest House.
The best time for trekking in Rajasthan is during the
winter months from November to February.
Water Sports
Year round facilities for swimming and boating are available,
with a fully equipped tourist village with 10 huts.
During the1982 Asian games, rowing competitions were
held in this 4km long and 2 km wide man-made lake. 10
kms from Alwar at the Siliserh Lake, there is a lovely
palace hotel equipped with all facilities run by RTDC.
Udaipur, the lake city of India, also has boating facilities.
Jaisamand Lake, 50 kms south of Udiapur, the second
largest artificial lake in Asia with 90 sq kms of water
has facilities for various water sports throughout the
year.
From Jawahar Sagar to Dholpur, in the Kota region of
the Chambal river, rafting is possible. There are plans
to introduce a ferry service on the Chambal river from
Kota barrage upstream to Bhensordgarh. One can glimpse
crocodiles basking in the sun on the river banks.
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